Volatility in global commodity markets remained a significant factor for the food industry during 2012. On the one hand, adverse weather conditions hit grain harvests causing prices to spike, while on the other, over-supply has meant cocoa and sugar prices have continued to fall. Katy Askew takes a look at some of the major developments on the commodities markets over the past 12 months.

Latest Interviews

Since selling its consumer units over the last few years, business-to-business chocolate maker Barry Callebaut has been treading a new path focused on its "core" business with industrial and artisanal customers. Michelle Russell caught up with Barry Callebaut marketing director for Western Europe, Sofie De Lathouwer at this year's ISM confectionery show in Cologne to find out more about its strategy for growth.

Latest News

Delfi, the Singapore-based confectioner formerly known as Petra Foods, is entering into a 50:50 joint venture with South Korean snack and candy manufacturer Orion Corp. to develop and sell a range of joint-branded products in Indonesia.

Singapore-based Delfi Ltd - formerly Petra Foods - has reported higher first-quarter profits despite a fall in sales amid the impact of currency fluctuations and the end of the confectioner's distribution in the country.

This week, Orkla pledged zero-deforestation by 2020. Elsewhere, United Biscuits opened its first e-commerce store in China. just-food spoke to CEO of American Halal Co., Adnan Durrani following the firm's recent acquisition in the plant-protein space and Givesco Bakery acquired cake maker Almondy. Here is the week in quotes.

Acquisitive Nomad Foods, which has snapped up one frozen food business in Europe and is set to buy another, this week confirmed it is eyeing possible deals in the sector in the US. Meanwhile, in emerging markets, Hershey is to go it alone in Brazil and Kellogg is to invest in R&D in India.

This week, Emmi reported a rise in first half profits on the back of stronger margins while Petra's profit suffered as a result of a slowing economy in Indonesia. We also took a look at what the easing of trade sanctions in Iran could mean for international food makers. Here is the week in quotes.

TreeHouse Foods first quarter sales surged – but the US food group cut its forecast for annual earnings. Inventure Foods revealed the devastating impact of the listeria recall. Meanwhile, Petra Foods commented on the slowdown in the Indonesian economy and weaker consumer sentiment. Here is just-food's weekly results round-up.

This week, Nestle lost a trademark infringement case in Singapore over its Kit Kat product. Arla Foods pulled out of the race to acquire Arab Dairy and Unilever decided to separate its ailing spreads business into a stand-alone unit. India hit the headlines frequently, with Britannia Industries "pioneering" the online exclusive launch of its new biscuit product before it hits traditional stores, and with Fererro re-thinking its plans for its business in the country.